I was very focused on my education—it was everything really. I grew up in a home where the importance of education was stressed. Education became my God at a certain point. But as I was getting ready to graduate from law school, and was accomplishing my goals and had everything I need to be happy, there was this God-shaped hole in my life. I decided to go to Calcutta because I wanted to see the place where Mother Teresa stared her ministry and I wanted to volunteer. I started to sense I really liked this and wanted to explore religious life. When I came back I began to discern more seriously.

What is the most difficult part about adjusting to religious life?

As an only child, saying goodbye to family for a while as I enter formation is hard. The challenging aspect is explaining what I’m doing. I can sense that in some ways my being away will make us closer, though.

What is the most rewarding part of the lifestyle?

I like participating in the Holy Hour every day. It has been very important for me. I feel the Lord reconfirming my call and that this is what he wants me to do.

What would you tell someone who is considering a religious vocation but unsure of next steps?

If you have a feeling of being called, don’t have fear. Fear can hold us back. Letting go of fear to find a greater good is a great feeling. When I started exploring the possibility of religious life, that is when I started to feel I was becoming myself. It is about getting to know yourself even more and being the person the Lord wants you to be. Don’t be afraid to take that step. We need that in the church. It’s a beautiful process.

If you met the Pope today and could ask him one question, what would it be?

How did you get to the place where you are constantly calling us to be better, but are still able to have so much humility?

What is your favorite Bible verse?

I love when Jesus is speaking to Martha in John 11:40: “Did I not tell you that if you believe, you will see the glory of God?”

What is your favorite prayer?

The Divine Mercy Chaplet

What do you do for fun?

I knit. I like to knit for my friends. I also like photography and writing.

What would you like to say to the Hilton Foundation, who made this grant possible?